In a surprising turn of events, the New Jersey Devils have decided to give their coach, Lindy Ruff, a multi-year contract extension, marking a remarkable shift in the team’s fortunes. This decision comes on the heels of the Devils’ first playoff appearance since 2018, a feat that seemed improbable at the start of the season.
Lindy Ruff’s coaching journey last season began with considerable uncertainty. Fans at the Prudential Center were so disheartened after the first two games of the 2022-23 season that they were chanting “Fire Lindy.” However, what followed was nothing short of spectacular. The Devils embarked on an astonishing 14-game winning streak, ultimately securing 52 victories and stunning their arch-rivals, the New York Rangers, in the playoffs.
Now entering his fourth season as New Jersey’s head coach, Lindy Ruff’s success has earned him a well-deserved contract extension. Devils’ General Manager Tom Fitzgerald had high praise for Ruff, emphasizing his pivotal role in guiding the team through its rebuilding phase.
Fitzgerald remarked, “We’re incredibly fortunate as an organization to have Lindy Ruff behind the bench to guide this group, who’ve made significant strides under his leadership. I’ve always believed that Lindy was, and continues to be, the right man behind the bench for this team. From the beginning, he’s done a tremendous job piloting our young group, and we’re excited to see this team’s continued success under his watch as we take the next steps.”
Ruff himself expressed his enthusiasm for the contract extension and his commitment to the Devils’ future. He’s eager to build upon the success of the previous season and is optimistic about the potential for long-term achievement.
“I’m thrilled to commit here to this situation and couldn’t be prouder of the great progress that our group made last season,” Ruff said. “We have a special group in Jersey, and there’s an opportunity to accomplish long-term success, make a lot of positive memories, and give our fans a lot to cheer about – because our Devils’ fan base is one of the best in the League, and they deserve to see a winner.”
Lindy Ruff’s coaching career spans an impressive 23 seasons in the NHL, during which he has amassed 834 wins, ranking him fifth all-time in coaching victories. With the Devils now considered among the top contenders for the 2024 Stanley Cup, Ruff is poised to add significantly to his win total and potentially cement his legacy as one of the great NHL coaches of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Devils Contract Extension
Q: Why did the New Jersey Devils decide to extend Lindy Ruff’s contract?
A: The New Jersey Devils extended Lindy Ruff’s contract due to his instrumental role in the team’s resurgence, marked by their first playoff appearance since 2018 and a remarkable winning streak. Devils’ General Manager Tom Fitzgerald praised Ruff’s leadership and the significant strides the team has made under his guidance.
Q: How long has Lindy Ruff been coaching in the NHL?
A: Lindy Ruff has an impressive coaching career spanning 23 seasons in the NHL, making him one of the league’s seasoned veterans. He currently ranks fifth all-time with 834 coaching victories.
Q: What are the expectations for the New Jersey Devils in the upcoming season?
A: The New Jersey Devils are now considered strong contenders for the Stanley Cup in 2024. With Lindy Ruff at the helm and the team’s recent success, there is optimism for a deep playoff run and potentially clinching the championship.
Q: How did the fans’ perception of Lindy Ruff change over the course of the season?
A: At the start of the 2022-23 season, some fans were calling for Lindy Ruff’s firing after a disappointing beginning. However, a remarkable 14-game winning streak and a successful playoff run transformed public sentiment, solidifying Ruff’s position as a respected coach in the eyes of the fans.
Q: What does Lindy Ruff have to say about the contract extension?
A: Lindy Ruff expressed his excitement about remaining with the New Jersey Devils and his pride in the team’s progress. He emphasized the potential for long-term success, creating positive memories, and delivering wins to the passionate Devils’ fan base.
More about Devils Contract Extension
- New Jersey Devils Official Website: For official announcements and news regarding the New Jersey Devils and Lindy Ruff’s contract extension.
- NHL.com: A comprehensive source for NHL news, statistics, and updates on coaches like Lindy Ruff.
- ESPN NHL: Provides in-depth coverage of NHL teams, including the New Jersey Devils and their recent successes.
- Lindy Ruff’s NHL Coaching Profile: Details Lindy Ruff’s coaching career statistics and achievements in the NHL.
- Stanley Cup Official Website: Information about the Stanley Cup and its significance in the NHL.
2 comments
Lindy Ruff, 834 wins, 23 seasons. That’s some record, man! Devils in the Cup talk, no doubt!
Ruff’s rollercoaster ride, from chants to cheers. Who woulda thought? Exciting times for Jersey hockey!